A Creative Encounters Volunteer helps a student on the computer.

Creative Encounters In-School Workshops

Spark Curiosity with Hands-on Learning - Bring Creative Encounters Programming to your Classroom

Led by our enthusiastic team of university student STEM Instructors, Creative Encounters' free in-school workshops for Grades K–8 offer fun, hands-on activities that spark curiosity and support learning. These workshops run from mid-May to mid-June.

Each workshop is designed to be 60 minutes in length, but can be adjusted to better suit school break/bell times.
The content for all workshops is designed to support (but not replace) the Ontario Science and Technology Curriculum and learning expectations, making them a great way to enhance STEM education in the classroom.
At this time, schools within (and directly surrounding) Guelph will receive priority but all schools are welcome to request a workshop.
Workshops are updated each year based on request and interest. Last year’s workshops are listed below.
Workshop availability is on a first come, first served basis - and spots fill up quickly!

If you are a teacher interested in Creative Encounters programs for your students, please email cse@uoguelph.ca to learn more.

Last Year's Workshops

A young Creative Encounters camper inspecting some sand

Living Things Like Me (K-1)

A hands-on and exploration-based workshop for kindergarten and grade 1 students. In this workshop, our STEM Instructors will teach your class about the needs and characteristics of living things – including us!

Two young Creative Encounters campers walking hand and hand through the Arboretum.

Backyard Biology (Grade 2-3)

Back by popular demand- An interactive and energetic workshop for grade 2 and 3 students. In this workshop, our STEM Instructors will work with your class to explore how animals and plants grow and change in the world around us – even in our own backyards!

Two Creative Encounters campers build a structure from popsicle sticks

The Build Breakdown (Grade 4-5)

A discussion and activity-based workshop for grade 4 and 5 students. In this workshop, our STEM Instructors will help your students explore forces and structures including what they are and how they interact with one another.

Two Creative Encounters campers exploring the physics of liquids and flow

Go With the Flow (Grade 6-8)

A hands-on and exciting workshop for grade 6, 7 and 8 students. In this workshop, our STEM Instructors will guide your class in discussing and learning about fluids, mixtures, and more.

Creative Encounters camper using an Ipad to learn about ai and programming

AI in Action (Grade 6-8)

Dive into the world of AI! In this workshop, our STEM Instructors will explore the different types of AI and how they are used with your students, then let them get hands-on experience by experimenting with various AI programs themselves.